Meet Liz O’Neill (she/her)

BSc (Psych). MA (Counselling). | ACA Registered Counsellor (Level 2)

Experienced Counsellor: Liz O'Neill.  A young woman with glasses and long blonde hair smiling with arms crossed, standing in a lush garden pathway with a blue puffin scarf to showcase her Among Puffins Counselling Business.

Hi there! My name is Liz and I’m so glad you’re here.

Navigating life can sometimes feel incredibly isolating, especially if you’ve ever felt on the outside, different or underestimated. Perhaps you’re moving through life with neurodivergence, chronic illness, unresolved hurt, or grief. You might be struggling with stress, emotional outbursts, overthinking or feeling lost. I founded Among Puffins because I know firsthand what it's like to navigate systems that weren't built for you—and how transformative it can be to finally feel understood. If you're looking for someone who truly gets it—both personally and professionally—you've found the right place.

Background & Credentials

With my Master's in Counselling and as a registered member of the Australian Counselling Association (Level 2), I bring years of experience supporting children, young people, and adults through counselling, mentoring, and crisis intervention roles. Much of my experience stems from working with neurodivergent individuals and those facing trauma, grief, complex mental health challenges and major life transitions. I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and have lived experience of chronic illness and complex grief.

My Philosophy

I understand that many of our struggles aren't personal failings—they're responses to living in systems that weren't designed for us. Especially if we’re neurodivergent, deeply feeling, chronically ill, or culturally marginalised. At Among Puffins, I work with this systemic awareness to support individuals who often feel stuck in patterns that keep them from living fully or authentically. Together, we'll work on what matters most to you - whether that's identity, purpose, self-worth, relationship difficulties, overwhelming emotions, or whatever is keeping you from living as your authentic self.

I move through the world with values rooted in feminist theory, cultural humility, and the belief that we are not broken — we are human. We hold the power to reshape the narratives we've been given and tell new, truer stories about who we are.
In a counselling space, I value that safety must always come first, trust is earned, authenticity is more important than conformity and that human connection is what heals us. I believe that all emotions serve a purpose which can be revealed through giving them the space they deserve and that grief for what was creates space for what can be.

How I’ll work with you

I work collaboratively using approaches that honour your story, your emotions, your values, and the different parts of yourself which sometimes can work in opposition to each other. Therapeutic modalities I draw on include; Emotion-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy and Parts Work. Learn more about how I work.
I offer two session lengths to suit your needs — a standard 50-minute session ($130.00), and a longer 75-minute option ($180.00) for those who prefer a gentler pace, come less frequently, or want extra time for deeper exploration.

Book a free 15 minute consultation
Green circular badge with white text reading 'mental health first aider' and 'accredited', featuring a white flower with eight petals in the center. Among Puffins Counselling. Emotional regulation. Neurodiverse-affirming Therapy. Grief Therapy.
A badge from the Australian Counseling Association showing 'Member Level 2'. Among Puffins Counselling. Liz O'Neill. Counsellor Australia. Neurodiverse-affirming Therapy. Grief Therapy.

Contact Liz

Ready to explore if we're a good fit? Book a free 15-minute consultation or reach out with any questions at amongpuffinscounselling@gmail.com

Not sure what to ask? Check out my FAQ Page for answers to common questions.